Pillows That Keep You on Your Side

Some pillows promote sleeping on your side.

In 1908, Inventor Louis F. Liebhardt was granted a patent for his anti-snoring device. It was a simple invention. The snorer strapped a large rubber ball to his back, making it impossible, or very uncomfortable to lie on his back. The device may have been effective, but thankfully there are more comfortable methods to prompt you to sleep on your side.

Side Sleeper Pillows

Side sleeper pillows are designed for people who prefer to sleep on their sides. Typically, a soft, plump pillow serves the side sleeper's needs. If you wake up to sore ears, an aching neck or back, or feel unrested, you may want to consider a side sleeper pillow. These pillows are more expensive than a traditional pillow, but they are specially designed to meet the needs of side sleepers. The pillow conforms to your body curves while providing proper support to your neck and head while keeping your back properly aligned.

Anti-snore Pillow

A chronic snorer may sleep blissfully through the night, totally unaware that her partner is suffering from lost sleep. While snoring can be a symptom of other conditions, mild snoring is often caused by a minor blockage of the airway due to improper sleeping position. Minor snoring can often be alleviated by sleeping on your side. Anti-snore pillows encourage a side position. The contours of the pillow are designed to support the neck and keep airway passages open. This promotes even breathing and reduces snoring. An anti-snore pillow may not only offer a snorer a restful night's sleep, it may prove to be a thoughtful gift for his partner.

Sleep Apnea Pillow

Sleep apnea is a common condition where breathing is disrupted during sleep. Because apnea occurs during sleep, the condition often goes untreated unless recognized by a family member or sleep partner. Symptoms of mild sleep apnea may be alleviated by using a side sleeper pillow. However, more serious cases may require CPAP treatment. CPAP is an acronym for "Continuous Positive Airway Pressure." A constant flow of air is pushed through an air mask, keeping the upper airway open. Sleep Apnea pillows are specially designed to properly position your head and neck while reducing the amount of air that escapes from the CPAP mask.

Body Pillows

Full body pillows offer total body support. The top portion of the pillow provides support to your head and neck while the lower portion supports your knees and legs. The body pillow may be a comforting choice for pregnant women, arthritis sufferers or people who like something to hug while they sleep.

References

• Michael J. Colitz, Jr. Registered Patent Attorney: Anti-snoring Device Louis F. Liebhard Patented September 8, 1908
• Pillow Review: Pillows for Side Sleepers
• Anti Snoring Pillow: Anti Snore Pillow
• Res Med: CPAP
• Sleep Apnea Guide: CPAP Pillow to Improve CPAP Adherence
• Spine-Health; Different Types of Pillows; John Schubbe DC

Resources

• National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: What is Sleep Apnea